Environmental groups warn against Telangana’s forest land auction

Hyderabad’s environment is at risk as the Telangana government plans to auction 400 acres of urban forest land in Kancha Gachibowli for real estate development. This ₹10,000 crore land is a biodiversity zone home to hundreds of species, and it maintains the city’s air quality, water security, and climate balance. Environmentalists, wildlife enthusiasts, and students oppose this decision, warning that destroying this forest will lead to higher temperatures, increased pollution, and irreversible wildlife damage.

The Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC) announced plans to auction the land, seeking bids for consultants to prepare a master plan and auction strategy. This move has triggered strong opposition from environmental activists and citizens, who argue that Hyderabad should focus on sustainable development rather than sacrificing its last green spaces for commercial projects. The ‘Save City Forests Collective’ and Climate Front Hyderabad, a youth-led environmental movement, called for an immediate cancellation of the auction and urge the government to declare the land a protected ecological zone.

Protests against the auction are gaining momentum. On March 10, environmental activists, students, and concerned citizens gathered at Kancha Gachibowli to voice their opposition. Holding banners that read "Save Our Forests" and "Stop the Auction," they demanded the government rethink its priorities. A protestor from the group Save City Forests stated, “With Hyderabad facing extreme summers, losing this forest will make heatwaves worse, increase air pollution, and destroy an important carbon sink.”

An online petition on Change.org, launched on March 11, gathered over 5,000 signatures within hours, reflecting strong public opposition. Activists warn that once this land is lost, the damage will be irreversible, as the forest acts as a climate regulator, groundwater recharge zone, and crucial wildlife habitat.

The Kancha Gachibowli forest is a thriving ecosystem. It is home to 237 bird species, including migratory ones, and wild animals like spotted deer, Indian rock pythons, monitor lizards, wild boars, porcupines, and the endangered Indian star tortoise. This area also includes Peacock Lake and Buffalo Lake, which provide essential nesting grounds for birds and support diverse wildlife. Experts warn that destroying this forest will increase human-wildlife conflict, as displaced animals will seek food and shelter in urban areas.

Environmentalists argue that losing this forest will worsen Hyderabad’s climate. The dense tree cover absorbs pollutants, reduces urban heat, and prevents excessive rainwater runoff, helping recharge groundwater. Without this green space, Hyderabad will face hotter summers, increased pollution, and a greater risk of water scarcity. Conservationists stress the government should focus on preserving existing forests, not clearing them for short-term financial gains.

Climate Front Hyderabad condemned the Telangana government’s plan, stating it prioritises profit over the people’s and environment’s well-being. The organisation said,

“This is not just about 400 acres; it is about Hyderabad’s future and its people. Destroying this forest will set a dangerous precedent for other ecologically sensitive areas. At a time of climate change crisis, prioritising real estate over ecology is irresponsible and unacceptable.”

The statement emphasised the ecological importance of Kancha Gachibowli, highlighting that the Indian Star Tortoise, found here, is protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List. This means any action leading to habitat destruction violates national and international conservation laws.

Activists warn that deforestation in this area will seriously impact the city’s air quality, water availability, and climate stability. The forest destruction will increase Hyderabad’s ‘urban heat island’ effect, making the city significantly warmer and less livable. It will worsen air pollution and reduce rainfall absorption, leading to water shortages. Experts argue the long-term effects of this auction will far outweigh the short-term financial benefits the government hopes to gain.

The fight to save Kancha Gachibowli is intensifying, with University of Hyderabad students, environmentalists, and activists demanding action. They’re calling on the Telangana government to cancel the auction and focus on restoring and preserving the forest. There’s growing pressure on political leaders and policymakers to prioritise environmental conservation over short-term commercial interests.

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